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Akshay Kumar to Host Indian 'Wheel of Fortune' - SPNI Brings Global Game-Show Classic to India
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Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, December 19th 2025 at 4:32 GMT by 
ThePrintLocale: Maharashtra, INDIA
SPNI Brings the Iconic “Wheel of Fortune” to India – Akshay Kumar to Host the New Game Show
In a bold move that underscores its intent to diversify its programming slate, Sony Pictures Network India (SPNI) has announced that it will launch an Indian version of the long‑running American game show “Wheel of Fortune.” The network revealed that the show will be hosted by Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, who will bring his signature charisma, wit, and pan‑Indian appeal to the studio floor.
Why “Wheel of Fortune” is a Natural Fit for SPNI
“Wheel of Fortune” is a globally recognised format that has already seen successful adaptations in a number of countries, most notably the UK, Australia, and India’s own earlier localized run on Zee TV in the early 2000s. The core premise—contestants spin a giant wheel to determine their cash prize and then solve word puzzles—offers a combination of luck, strategy, and linguistic skill that has proven to resonate with broad audiences.
SPNI, which already owns popular game‑show franchises such as “Kaun Banega Crorepati” and “Who’s Your Daddy?,” is keen to tap into the game‑show market’s strong family‑friendly appeal. By bringing an internationally proven format to the Indian market, the network hopes to cement its position as a leading destination for high‑quality, high‑viewership entertainment.
The announcement comes at a time when Indian television is increasingly leaning towards “ready‑made” content, especially after the success of Indian adaptations of international shows like “The Voice India” and “Bigg Boss.” SPNI’s decision to bring “Wheel of Fortune” is thus a calculated attempt to balance the familiarity of a proven format with fresh, star‑powered presentation.
Akshay Kumar – A Host with Pan‑Indian Appeal
Akshay Kumar is one of the most bankable actors in Bollywood, with a career that spans over two decades and a filmography featuring a wide range of genres from action to comedy to drama. The actor has a reputation for his high‑energy performances, his ability to connect with audiences across linguistic and cultural lines, and his own experience hosting live shows—most notably the “Akshay Kumar Show” that aired on Sony Entertainment Television in 2021.
In a statement, Akshay Kumar expressed his excitement about the new venture: “I’ve always loved the idea of combining fun, suspense, and a touch of competition. ‘Wheel of Fortune’ has that magic, and I can’t wait to bring that energy to Indian viewers.” Kumar’s involvement is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the show’s presentation style, blending his Bollywood charisma with the light‑hearted nature of a game‑show format.
Show Format & Production Highlights
While the core mechanics of “Wheel of Fortune” will remain the same, SPNI has made a few strategic adjustments to cater to Indian sensibilities:
| Element | Adaptation |
|---|---|
| Wheel Segments | The wheel will feature 12 segments, each representing a different theme such as “Entertainment,” “Travel,” “Technology,” “Food & Drink,” and “Family.” Each segment will be colour‑coded, similar to the original US version. |
| Prize Structure | The maximum cash prize will be ₹10 lakh, with smaller cash rewards for each spin and additional prizes such as cars, trips, and gadgets. |
| Puzzles | Contestants will solve Hindi and English word puzzles, with a few “mixed‑language” puzzles to reflect India’s bilingual culture. |
| Audience Participation | The studio audience will vote for the “Audience Choice” puzzle, which can unlock bonus spins or special prizes. |
| Digital Tie‑In | Viewers can play along via a dedicated mobile app, spinning a virtual wheel and solving puzzles in real time. The app will also allow viewers to vote for the contestant of the week. |
The set design will feature a large, polished wheel that mirrors the iconic design of the American version, with a modern twist to align with SPNI’s contemporary visual aesthetic. The production will be directed by Nitin Shah, a veteran in Indian game‑show production who has previously worked on “Kaun Banega Crorepati” and “Bigg Boss.”
The show will be produced in Mumbai, with a live studio audience of 200–250 people. A post‑production team will handle the editing and distribution to Sony’s multi‑platform ecosystem—including Sony SAB, Sony Entertainment Television, and the streaming service Hotstar.
Strategic Timing & Distribution
SPNI announced that “Wheel of Fortune” will premiere in autumn 2024, scheduled to occupy the 9:30 pm to 10:30 pm slot on Sony Entertainment Television. This prime‑time window is aimed at capturing a broad demographic that includes working adults, families, and college students. In addition to the TV broadcast, the show will be simultaneously live‑streamed on Sony’s digital platforms for on‑demand viewing and social media engagement.
The network’s distribution strategy leverages its existing cross‑media synergy. For instance, the show’s promotional campaign will include teaser clips on YouTube, behind‑the‑scenes footage on Instagram, and a “spin‑the‑wheel” promotional contest on Twitter. The brand has also partnered with leading automotive and electronics brands for prize sponsorships, thereby providing an integrated advertising platform for sponsors.
Market Context & Competitor Landscape
India’s game‑show market has been historically dominated by “Kaun Banega Crorepati” (KBC) and “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?” (WWTBAM). However, the recent entry of “The Voice India” and “Bigg Boss” has broadened the genre’s appeal. By introducing “Wheel of Fortune,” SPNI is positioning itself to compete directly with other networks’ game‑show programming while adding a distinct twist that focuses on puzzles rather than trivia or singing.
The show’s format also aligns with the broader Indian trend of educational entertainment. According to a recent report by KPMG India, viewers increasingly seek content that offers both entertainment value and cognitive stimulation, especially in the family‑entertainment segment. “Wheel of Fortune” fits neatly into this niche, offering puzzle solving that engages the audience intellectually while keeping the stakes high.
Takeaways for Indian Viewers
- High‑Energy Hosting: Akshay Kumar’s involvement guarantees a lively, charismatic presentation.
- Bilingual Puzzles: The mix of Hindi and English word puzzles makes the show accessible to a broad audience.
- Integrated Digital Experience: Viewers can participate in real time via an app, creating an interactive viewing experience.
- Strategic Partnerships: Sponsorships from top brands provide high‑value prizes and immersive brand experiences.
- Prime‑Time Appeal: The 9:30 pm slot positions the show as a staple for evening entertainment.
Conclusion
SPNI’s launch of “Wheel of Fortune” with Akshay Kumar at the helm signals a renewed commitment to innovative, high‑quality content that blends international formats with Indian cultural nuances. With its strategic timing, robust production plan, and star‑powered hosting, the show is poised to become a new household favourite, adding a fresh dimension to the Indian television landscape. Whether you’re a puzzle enthusiast, a game‑show aficionado, or simply looking for a fun evening on TV, “Wheel of Fortune” promises to deliver the suspense and thrill that have made the original a global icon.
Read the Full ThePrint Article at:
[ https://theprint.in/feature/spni-to-bring-wheel-of-fortune-to-india-akshay-kumar-to-host-the-game-show/2808960/ ]
